Guidelines for the Protection of Tubbs Hill

When it comes to public spaces in Coeur d’Alene, it would be hard to find a place as special, important or valued as Tubbs Hill.  From hiking and exploring nature to swimming, “Tubbs” provides the public with recreational opportunities year-round.  It has a rich history and makes a positive impact on the Coeur d’Alene community, resulting in a public natural area that is treasured by all.  It has created memories for both locals and visitors that have impacted generations of “Friends of Tubbs Hill.”  Although managed by the City of Coeur d’Alene Parks and Recreation Department, Tubbs is not a park; it is a Natural Area and the City works hard to keep this place as natural as possible.

As people use Tubbs, there are several practices you can follow to protect it for the future.  The Hiking trails at Tubbs range in difficulty and there is the opportunity for hikers of all abilities to enjoy a trail.  Any trail signage added to Tubbs is done so by the Parks Department with input from the Tubbs Hill Foundation.  No private signage, decorations or construction of any kind is allowed on Tubbs.

For safety reasons, biking on these trails however is not allowed.  If you want to engage in mountain biking, try out Canfield Mountain and similar natural areas throughout Coeur d’Alene.  Always follow the posted rules for any park or natural area.

Bringing your dog on a hike is certainly allowed and encouraged.  In fact, there is an off-leash dog park right at the base of Tubbs.  If you chose to bring your dog to Tubbs, they must be on a leash.  There is a leash law in Coeur d’Alene that will be enforced.  For your dog’s safety, as well as the safety and enjoyment of others, please keep your dog leashed and please clean up after your dog.

One of the things that makes Tubbs special is its forest.  The trees and wildlife on Tubbs add to its beauty and public enjoyment.  Being a natural area, we have a policy that only native trees and plants can be planted on Tubbs.  The City plants seedlings through reforestation efforts.  If you would like to take part in a planting, we ask that you look for volunteer opportunities and do not take it upon yourself to plant trees on Tubbs. 

Tubbs is a great place to relax and take in nature.  Camping, however, is not allowed on Tubbs Hill.  While you are relaxing, do not smoke or start a fire on Tubbs.  Pack-in, pack-out and leave nothing but footprints.  There are no trash cans in this natural area and so, please, do not litter.  It is always important to show respect and consideration for those who will follow you.

If, on your hikes, you ever find a tree that is concerning or if you have questions about tree removals, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department.  Removal of or damage to any trees or vegetation on Tubbs or any other City property is not allowed.

Tubbs could have become anything when it was privately owned property.  What it became was a gift to this community; it is to be a public space in perpetuity.  If it is to remain a safe, clean and natural area, there must be a partnership with the public to keep It safe, clean, healthy, and natural.  The City of Coeur d’Alene Parks and Recreation Department asks for your help in following these guidelines and rules, and spreading the word to your friends and neighbors. We ask that you enjoy Tubbs to its fullest extent, while giving it the respect it deserves.  We do not take this special place for granted and neither should you.  As the weather changes, please come and enjoy Tubbs Hill.

The City of Coeur d’Alene Urban Forestry Division is your ally in caring for public trees and all trees properly.  If you have any questions regarding public trees, natural areas, Urban Forestry ordinances, or tree selection and care, you may contact Urban Forester Nick Goodwin at (208) 769-2266, or email at [email protected] for more information.